Matter Of Taste - Cleveland Matter Of Taste - Cleveland

If cookies are one of life's great joys, then this time of year is a bonanza of sugary love. Christmas cookies stir nostalgic feelings for many foodies, and like ugly sweaters and Hallmark movies baked goodies get elevated status in December. While it is possible to pick up these deliciously decorated delights at a bakery or grocery store, there's nothing quite like making them at home. This week's episode is the result of years of testing and tasting. Figuring out which expert to interview for an episode on Christmas cookies quickly became obvious... we couldn't think of anyone better to interview than our moms.

It's been called the most wonderful time of the year. Drinking adult beverages is so associated with the month of December that we are routinely encouraged to grab a cup of cheer. So what libations come to mind when it's your turn to make spirits bright? This week ask Joe Deluca to rattle off some of his favorites. Ever had a Tom & Jerry? How about that punch Grandma Molly used to make with lime sherbet? Listen and learn. Cheers!

What's the secret the the 'best damn grilled cheese you ever had'? Roasted Garlic Cheddar on rye bread. That's according to Lisa Seppi, from The Cheese Shop in Cleveland's Westside Market. For more than a decade Lisa has been slinging over 200 kinds of cheeses from all over the planet at this popular stand. Wanna do a fondue but not sure where to start? Lisa tells all.

Any beverage that was once known as "mother's ruin" hardly seems like something one might reach for as refreshment. But, this same elixir has also been hailed as "Dutch courage". What is it about gin that sets it apart from other spirits? How come no one ever orders gin shots, for instance? Well, Joe Deluca knows what happens if you do, and he explains why it's a bad idea. Plus, find out why London Dry doesn't have to come from England and which cocktail to order next if you want to move beyond gin & juice.

What's your caffeination situation? Recent studies have shown that for most adults coffee consumption is 3 cups a day, costing us each about a thousand dollars every year! And Americans spend more than $18 billion each year on these blasted beans. In this week's episode of Matter Of Taste we're talking with Charlie Eisenstat, the man behind one of this town's favorite java joints: Pour Cleveland.